Kuwait Repatriates 32 Sri Lankan Prisoners Under 2007 Agreement
In a significant development, 32 Sri Lankan nationals serving sentences in Kuwait have been repatriated to Sri Lanka to complete their remaining prison terms. This marks the first implementation of the prisoner exchange agreement signed between the two countries in 2007.
Background of the Agreement
The agreement on the transfer of sentenced persons was established in 2007 to allow individuals convicted in either country to serve their sentences in their home nation. This initiative aimed to facilitate better rehabilitation opportunities and maintain familial connections for the incarcerated individuals.
Details of the Transfer
On November 25, 2024, the first batch of 32 Sri Lankan inmates, convicted of various crimes including drug-related offenses, were transported from Kuwait to Colombo. They arrived at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) aboard a Kuwait Air Force C-17 aircraft, escorted by officials from Kuwait’s Ministry of Interior, armed forces, and medical personnel.
Upon arrival, the prisoners were received by officials from the Sri Lankan Prisons Department and transported to Welikada Prison to serve the remainder of their sentences.
Efforts Leading to the Repatriation
The prolonged transfer process faced delays due to challenging economic conditions. However, persistent efforts by the Sri Lankan Embassy in Kuwait, in coordination with Sri Lanka’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment and Tourism, and the Ministry of Justice & National Integration, culminated in securing a dedicated Kuwait Air Force aircraft for the mission, provided free of charge.
Ambassador Kandeepan Balsubramaniam and embassy officials were present at the Abdullah Air Force Base during the handover of the prisoners to Sri Lankan authorities.
Future Transfers and Ongoing Cooperation
Approximately 70 more Sri Lankan prisoners remain in Kuwaiti custody. Plans are underway to facilitate their transfer once the necessary clearances are obtained from relevant authorities.
This repatriation underscores the strong bilateral relations between Sri Lanka and Kuwait and highlights both nations’ commitment to upholding the rights and welfare of their citizens abroad.
Regional Context
Similar initiatives have been observed in the region. For instance, in December 2023, 44 Sri Lankans imprisoned across the United Arab Emirates were pardoned by a royal order and repatriated. Such actions reflect the growing cooperation between Sri Lanka and Middle Eastern countries in addressing issues related to their expatriate communities.
Conclusion
The successful repatriation of these 32 Sri Lankan prisoners from Kuwait marks a milestone in the implementation of international agreements aimed at promoting justice and human rights. It also serves as a testament to the enduring diplomatic ties and collaborative efforts between Sri Lanka and Kuwait in addressing mutual concerns and enhancing the well-being of their citizens
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